Coconut oil is made from the dried nut of a coconut palm tree. It is commonly found on the shelves of supermarkets and health food stores. Due to its health benefits, the demand for this oil has spiked dramatically over the years.

What makes it so special? Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a unique form of saturated fats that have been proven to have positive health effects. It is safe to eat and has a wide variety of healing properties.

Coconut oil is one of the world's most weight-loss friendly fats. It has been regarded as a "superfood." Because it contains less calories than other oils, chefs have begun using it in restaurants for frying and baking instead of butter. Coconut oil has magical anti-aging effects, and has been used as a natural remedy for beauty while strengthening hair and moisturizing skin.

It has been proven that countries like the Philippines and India have fewer cases of heart disease and obesity because they consume high amounts of coconut oil (The Healthy Home Economist). Improving digestion, preventing high blood pressure and fighting off infections are just a few of the other health effects.

Why Coconut Oil Is Magic

Burn Fat

According to Authority Nutrition, "the medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil can increase energy expenditure compared to the same amount of calories from longer chain fats." In other words, coconut oil is high in fatty acids that boost your metabolism, ultimately leading to increased fat loss.

Reduce Hunger

Coconut oil has been proven to increase feelings of fullness. It will help reduce your appetite and leave you satisfied with smaller portions. Tip: Consume coconut oil 20 minutes before your meal to help you feel fuller faster.

Improves Digestion

Coconut oil helps improve digestive issues. According to Health Impact News, "it is reported that about 95 million Americans suffer from some kind of digestive disorder," and "Americans spend more than $100 billion dollars annually on digestive health care!" Coconut oil contains fatty acids that are absorbed quicker and easier in the digestive track. Adding just a small amount of coconut oil to your diet can help decrease your suffering and spending.

Dental Care

Believe it or not, coconut oil helps with dental care. According to a study by Dr. Mercola, coconut oil helps fight against the bacteria responsible for tooth decay. Tip: Use it as toothpaste, it doesn't have any harmful chemicals and it helps fight cavities and gum disease.

Improves Blood Cholesterol Levels

According to WebMD, "fans of coconut oil point to studies that suggest the MCT-saturated fat in coconut could boost your HDL or 'good' cholesterol." They claim it's not as bad for your heart health as saturated fats found in animal-based foods such as cheese and steak or products containing trans fats.

Improves Energy

As mentioned earlier, medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are found in coconut oil. They have been known to provide a great energy source for the body. According to Livestrong.com, "the fats contained in coconut oil may also help to boost thermogenesis and/or fat burning in the body." Tip: Start your day with an energy boost by adding coconut oil to your breakfast. Instead of butter, spread 1 or 2 tablespoons of coconut oil on your toast.

Protects Hair

Regularly massaging your hair with coconut oil helps free your scalp of dandruff. Coconut oil is high in anti-microbial properties, lauric acid and medium-chain fatty acids that help strengthen hair, condition your scalp and help regrow hair. It also helps rejuvenate your hair and bring out its natural shine.

Skin Care

The benefits of coconut oil on your skin are endless. Use it as a daily moisturizer. Apply on your skin to improve issues such as burns, dermatitis, and eczema. Replace your expensive shaving cream and use it for soft, hydrated skin after shaving. Use it as an eye makeup remover and even try it out as a nighttime face moisturizer/cleanser.

Improves Memory

Coconut oil gives your brain the energy boost it needs to function properly. It "is about 60 percent pure, thus absorbed more easily and quickly by the brain and converted directly into energy." This results in a healthier functioning brain and leads to better memory recollection.

Slows Down Aging

Coconut oil may just be the miracle anti-aging remedy you have been searching for. According to Natural News, "coconut oil helps minimize wrinkles by promoting collagen production and replacement." Tip: Use organic cold pressed virgin coconut oil, it is safe and has been proven to benefit your skin than most skin screams and lotions.

Strengthens Immune System

Coconut oil contains antioxidants that have been shown to help reduce the risk of disease. As Megan Telpner explains, coconut oil strengthens the immune system because it contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, caprylic acid, and capric acid which have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Fights Infections

Coconut oil is effective against fighting off infections. Megan Telpner explains, "according to the Coconut Research Center, coconut oil kills viruses that cause influenza, measles, hepatitis, herpes, SARS, etc."

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Coconut Oil, Diet, Health, Nutrition, The Active Times